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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead procurement strategies and manage supplier relationships to deliver value.
- Company: Join the Church of England, a diverse not-for-profit organisation making a positive impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and health benefits like Medicash.
- Why this job: Be part of a dedicated team focused on best practices and social impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in indirect procurement, data analysis, and project management is essential.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from underrepresented groups.
The predicted salary is between 59000 - 83000 £ per year.
Location: London, SW1P 3AZ
Permanent: £59,248 GBP
Sector: Not for Profit
Job ref: cofe/TP/82685/8240
About Role
We are seeking a Procurement Category Manager to lead the development and execution of indirect category strategies, governance, and policies. The role involves delivering value through strategic sourcing initiatives and managing supplier relationships. Procurement functions as a shared service within the Finance Department, collaborating across the National Centres of Innovation (NCIs) to provide cost-effective financial services. We are building a dedicated procurement team focused on value for money, supplier and contract management, and adopting best practices in procurement.
What you’ll be doing
Your main responsibilities include developing and implementing category strategies, managing procurement activities, enhancing team skills, and improving reporting and compliance. You will lead strategic sourcing initiatives within your categories, provide expertise, and manage risks and supplier issues to ensure successful outcomes.
Main Responsibilities
- Procurement Strategy Development
- Policy and Process Development
- Leading Procurement Activities
- Reporting and Compliance
You will need to be/have:
- Broad experience in indirect procurement, especially in Professional Services and IT categories
- Proficiency in analyzing large data sets using Microsoft Excel
- Experience with e-procurement and P2P systems
- Project management experience and familiarity with recognized methodologies
- MCPIS qualification and knowledge of contract law
- Prince2 certification or substantial experience in managing large projects (Desirable)
About You
The Church of England values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds, especially UK Minoritised Ethnicities/Global Majority Heritage and underrepresented groups. We are committed to recruiting disabled candidates and offer interviews to those meeting minimum criteria.
Additional Information
For more details, please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.
What we offer
- Salary: £59,248 per annum plus pension contributions (8-15%), with additional matching up to 3%.
- Benefits include:
- 25 days annual leave, increasing to 30 days after 5 years, plus bank holidays and additional days
- Flexible working arrangements
- Family-friendly policies including enhanced maternity, adoption, paternity, and shared parental leave
- Development opportunities and apprenticeships
- Health benefits such as Medicash, virtual GP, and private helplines
- Occupational health support and Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to departmental facilities and staff networks
Procurement Category Manager employer: Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
Contact Detail:
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Procurement Category Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the procurement field, especially those who have experience in indirect procurement and the specific categories mentioned in the job description. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about best practices.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in e-procurement and P2P systems. This knowledge will not only help you stand out but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with strategic sourcing initiatives in detail. Think of specific examples where you've successfully managed supplier relationships or delivered value through procurement strategies.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Church of England's values and their commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be ready to articulate how your background and experiences align with their mission, as this can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Procurement Category Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in indirect procurement, especially in Professional Services and IT categories. Use specific examples to demonstrate your proficiency in managing supplier relationships and executing strategic sourcing initiatives.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for procurement and how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention your experience with e-procurement systems and project management methodologies like Prince2.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your MCPIS qualification and any relevant certifications. If you have substantial experience in managing large projects, make sure to include that as well, as it is desirable for this role.
Showcase Data Analysis Skills: Since the role requires proficiency in analysing large data sets using Microsoft Excel, provide examples of how you've successfully used data analysis in previous roles to drive procurement decisions or improve processes.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)
✨Showcase Your Procurement Expertise
Make sure to highlight your broad experience in indirect procurement, especially in Professional Services and IT categories. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've developed and implemented category strategies in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Data Analysis Skills
Since proficiency in analysing large data sets using Microsoft Excel is crucial, come prepared with examples of how you've used data analysis to drive procurement decisions. You might even want to bring a sample report or analysis you've done in the past.
✨Familiarise Yourself with E-Procurement Systems
Understanding e-procurement and P2P systems is essential for this role. Research the systems commonly used in the industry and be ready to discuss your experience with them, as well as any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Prepare for Project Management Questions
Given the importance of project management experience, brush up on recognised methodologies like Prince2. Be ready to share specific projects you've managed, focusing on your role, the challenges faced, and the successful outcomes achieved.
